Newfoundland and Labrador Premier John Hogan is on side with the leaders of the other provinces and territories on knocking down trade barriers, but says opening up the borders is a delicate balancing act.

Hogan spent yesterday in Saskatchewan meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney and the first ministers. Carney wants to hear their ideas on projects of national interest as he’s promising to reduce regulatory hurdles and review times.

Quebec Premier Francois Legault has already asked Ottawa to help fund the infrastructure required to transport electricity from Gull Island to Quebec.

Hogan notes that such projects in Newfoundland and Labrador are shovel ready. He says all provinces are willing to work with each other in order to create free trade from coast to coast to coast.

“There are carve-outs for a reason. For example, we need to protect our fish processing plants as they are vital to our rural communities,” says Hogan.

“We’re happy to do free trade but we have to protect the jobs of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”